There’s now a ‘Frequent Traveler University’ where you can learn to fly first class for free

Savvy flyers can collect air miles and qualify for free first class upgrades.
JetSmarter

A non-profit group is running free talks on how to make the most out of air miles.

Frequent Traveller University runs weekend conventions across the world.

Seminars explain how to save money and get travel perks, including first class upgrades.

A non-profit group is making it easier to reach your travel goals by running educational seminars on the best ways to maximise air miles, hotel points, and credit card rewards — and their talks are all free.

The Frequent Traveller University (FTU) hosts educational talks led by flying experts, air mile aficionados, and savvy travel bloggers who each have their own tips and tricks for making travel cheaper, more comfortable, and more luxurious.

The talks all revolve around maximising air miles. For those unfamiliar with the scheme, many airlines reward customers with points for flying with their company. After a while, flyers can redeem points for a variety of benefits, including discounted seats, travel perks, and even a first-class upgrade.

The air miles community is constantly growing, with increasing numbers of flyers getting hooked on the buzz of redeeming increasingly luxurious perks.

Brian Kelly, also known as "The Points Guy," is just one example. Kelly has flown all over the world for next to nothing after he began collecting his dad's frequent flier points. Since then, he has set up a blog that helps flyers maximise their points and has turned his air miles passion into a successful business.

The events run by the Frequent Traveller University aren't just for people obsessed with private jets and first class upgrades, though. The talks are aimed at every level of flyer — from jet-setters always on the road for business, to absolute beginners who want to find ways to save on their annual family holiday.

FTU's talks take place over long weekends across the world, with the next free convention taking place in Chicago later this month.